Keratoses is a plural noun that refers to a group of skin conditions characterized by the development of thickened, rough, and scaly patches on the skin's surface. These patches, known as keratotic lesions or keratoses, can vary in size, shape, and appearance depending on the specific type and location.
Keratoses can occur due to a variety of causes, including exposure to the sun (actinic keratoses), genetic predisposition (seborrheic keratoses), viral infections (verrucous keratoses), or prolonged pressure or friction on the skin (corns or calluses). They are generally noncancerous and benign, but in some cases, they may indicate a precancerous condition that could potentially develop into skin cancer.
Typically, keratoses appear as dry, rough, scaly or crusty patches that range in color from white, tan, or pink to dark brown or black. They are most commonly found on areas of the body frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, arms, and scalp.
Treatment for keratoses may involve various approaches, depending on the underlying cause and severity. Options may include topical medications, cryotherapy (freezing the lesion), curettage (scraping the lesion off), laser therapy, or surgical removal. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are recommended to detect any potential changes or signs of malignancy.
In summary, keratoses refer to a group of skin conditions characterized by the development of thick, rough, and scaly patches on the skin's surface. Although typically harmless, some types may require treatment or monitoring due to their potential connection to skin cancer.
